As expected, Tyler Wilson named Arkansas’ starting QB

Posted by Ben Kercheval on August 26, 2011, 8:00 AM EST

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News? Not really; redshirt junior Tyler Wilson was very much expected be the successor to Ryan Mallett after he departed for the NFL, but because coach Bobby Petrino wanted to “maximize competition in practice”, he waited until a little over a week before the start of the season before naming a starting quarterback.

I feel like he’s the one who deserves it,” Petrino said. “He has prepared hard and has done a good job in practice. He’s done a good job with his leadership.”

Wilson beat out redshirt sophomore Brandon Mitchell for the gig.

Last season, Wilson performed well in backup duties, throwing for 453 yards and four touchdowns. His most significant playing time came in a loss against Auburn in which he threw for 332 yards and four touchdowns.

This year, Wilson will have one of the most talented receiving groups to throw to with seniors Greg Childs, Joe Adams and Jarius Wright. However, Arkansas will be without their two leading rushers from a year ago. Knile Davis suffered a season-ending ankle injury earlier this month and Broderick Green suffered a season-ending ACL injury in April.

As I posted in the pro football section.. This guy outplayed Mallett in the AU game. His delivery.. is fluid.. his reads are quick as hell.. He’s gonna give the SEC west fits as long as the running game stays dependable..